Flavors & Fragrances
REACH
Isophorone
CAS Number
78-59-1
EC Number
201-126-0
FEMA Number
FEMA 3553
What is Isophorone?
Isophorone (CAS 78-59-1) is a cyclic ketone solvent used in industrial coatings, specialty chemical synthesis and flavoring. FEMA 3553; also marketed as Isoforone.
Where is Isophorone used?
- Coatings and lacquers: dissolves nitrocellulose, epoxy and polyurethane resins
- High-solids systems: slow-evaporating carrier for controlled drying
- High-build formulations: solvent balance affects film quality
- Synthesis: reaction medium and intermediate for isophorone diamine and isophorone diisocyanate, key polyurethane building blocks
- Personal care: carrier solvent in nail lacquers and specialty cosmetic formulations
- In baked goods and beverages it contributes a fruity, herbal note at permitted use levels.
Good to know: Food and flavor-compliant material meets purity requirements for regulated flavor formulations.
Commercial specifications
- Drum and IBC quantities
- Bulk tanker options for larger volumes
Other Names (Synonyms)
Izoforon|Isoforone|alpha-isophorone|3,5,5-Trimethyl-2-cyclohexenone|3,5,5-Trimethyl-2-cyclo-hexen-1-one|1,1,3-Trimethyl-3-cyclohexene-5-one|3,5,5-Trimethylcyclohex-2-en-1-one|Isoforon
What are the physical properties of Isophorone?
Melting Point -8.1 °C
Boiling Point 215.32 °C
Density 0.9255 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point 184 °F
Appearance light yellow liquid
Color Clear colorless to yellow
Odor Like camphor.
Form Liquid
Water Solubility Soluble in water (12g/L).
Vapor Pressure 0.2 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.476(lit.)
Log P 1.67-1.7 at 20℃
How is Isophorone classified and handled safely? Learn More
Warning
GHS07· Irritant GHS08· Health Hazard
Hazard Statements
H227 Combustible liquid
H302 Harmful if swallowed
H312 Harmful in contact with skin
H316 Causes mild skin irritation
Precautionary Statements
P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use.
P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Isophorone?
HS Code 29142990
UN Number 3082
ADR Class 9
Packing Group III
Storage Class 10 - Combustible liquids
WGK (Germany) 1